2020 Honda Civic Sport Steering Wheel Button Lighting Not Working

So, you’re driving your 2020 Honda Civic Sport, cruising down the road, and you suddenly notice that the steering wheel buttons that control your car’s functions are barely visible. You try to press them, but nothing seems to happen. It’s frustrating, right? It’s one of those things that seems small, but when the lights go out, it can make driving a lot more annoying. Well, don’t worry! In this blog post, we’ll walk through the common reasons why your steering wheel button lighting might not be working and, more importantly, how to fix it. Grab your tools, and let’s get started!

Common Causes of Steering Wheel Button Lighting Not Working

It’s always a bit of a letdown when something simple like the button lighting on your steering wheel decides to quit working. But before you panic, it’s important to know that this is actually a common issue among many car models, including the 2020 Honda Civic Sport. Understanding the root cause can help you pinpoint the issue and find an affordable, quick solution.

Electrical Issues

One of the primary reasons why the lighting for your steering wheel buttons might stop working is an electrical issue. Think of your car’s electrical system like a big network of wires and circuits, all working together to power your vehicle’s features. Sometimes, a loose connection or a blown fuse can disrupt the flow of electricity to the button lighting, causing them to go out.

Loose or corroded wires are often the culprit here. Over time, vibration, exposure to the elements, or general wear and tear can cause the wires connected to your steering wheel buttons to loosen or get damaged. If this happens, the lighting might flicker or stop completely. The first step to fixing this is to check the wiring around the steering wheel and ensure everything is securely connected.

Fuses play a key role in protecting your car’s electrical components, including the button lighting. If a fuse blows, it could cut power to the steering wheel lighting. To fix this, you might need to replace the blown fuse. Fortunately, this is a fairly easy task, and many car owners can do it themselves.

Faulty Steering Wheel Button Assembly

Another possibility is a fault within the actual steering wheel button assembly. Your steering wheel buttons aren’t just there to help you control the car’s functions—they also house the lighting system. If one of these components is faulty, the entire lighting system can fail. For instance, a malfunctioning button or light fixture could prevent the light from turning on, even though everything else is working fine.

In this case, replacing the button assembly might be necessary. However, this can be a bit more complicated since it involves removing parts of the steering wheel. If you’re not comfortable with disassembling your steering wheel, it’s best to have a professional mechanic do this for you.

Software and Settings Issues

Believe it or not, software settings can sometimes interfere with the button lighting on your steering wheel. The 2020 Honda Civic Sport is packed with high-tech features, including a digital interface that controls various settings. If there’s a glitch or a setting that’s been accidentally toggled, it could lead to your steering wheel button lighting malfunctioning.

In this case, a simple reset or checking the settings on your car’s infotainment system might do the trick. Sometimes, the solution could be as simple as making sure the lights are actually turned on within the system’s settings. Checking the user manual could save you time and frustration here.

Dirty or Blocked Light Fixtures

Another common reason for steering wheel button lighting failure is dirt or debris blocking the light fixtures. Over time, dust, grime, or even food particles can find their way into your car’s interior, especially around the steering wheel. If the button lights aren’t working, a quick cleaning of the light fixtures might solve the problem.

Before diving into cleaning, it’s important to inspect the area around the steering wheel buttons to see if any buildup has occurred. Gently wipe the area with a microfiber cloth or use compressed air to clear out any debris. It’s a small step that could make a big difference.

How to Fix the Lighting Issue on a Honda Civic Sport Steering Wheel

Now that we know some of the potential causes of the problem, let’s dive into how to actually fix it. Depending on what’s causing the issue, there are several solutions to get your steering wheel button lighting back in action. Here’s a breakdown of some easy-to-follow steps you can take:

Step 1: Check the Fuses

The first thing you should do is check the fuses. Fuses protect your car’s electrical system, and if one blows, it can affect various features, including your steering wheel button lighting. Don’t worry—this is an easy fix, and most car owners can replace a fuse without much trouble.

Start by locating the fuse box in your Honda Civic Sport. The location of the fuse box may vary depending on the trim level, but it’s typically located near the driver’s side footwell or under the hood. Once you’ve located the fuse box, refer to the owner’s manual to find the fuse that controls the steering wheel button lighting.

If the fuse appears to be blown (it will usually look blackened or melted), use a pair of pliers to remove it. You can then replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage rating. Be sure to double-check that the new fuse is seated properly, as a loose fuse can cause the issue to persist.

Step 2: Inspect the Wiring

If checking the fuses doesn’t solve the problem, it’s time to look at the wiring. Loose or damaged wires are a common cause of electrical problems in cars, including issues with button lighting. To inspect the wiring, you’ll likely need to remove some parts of the steering wheel.

If you’re not familiar with how to take apart the steering wheel, it might be a good idea to seek help from a professional mechanic. However, if you’re comfortable with DIY repairs, start by disconnecting the car’s battery to ensure your safety. Once you’ve done that, carefully remove the steering wheel’s cover and locate the wires connected to the buttons. If you see any frayed or loose wires, they’ll need to be repaired or replaced.

Step 3: Replace the Steering Wheel Button Assembly

If the issue is more complex and the wiring looks fine, the next step is to inspect the actual steering wheel button assembly. Sometimes, the buttons themselves malfunction or the light fixture inside them fails. In this case, replacing the steering wheel button assembly may be necessary.

Replacing the button assembly can be a bit tricky, as it involves disassembling the steering wheel. If you’re not confident in your ability to do this, it’s worth taking your car to a mechanic who can handle the job for you.

Step 4: Reset the Car’s Software

If all else fails, it might be worth checking the car’s software. A simple reset of the infotainment system or a software update could resolve any issues causing the steering wheel button lighting to stop working.

To reset the system, you can typically do this through the settings menu on the infotainment screen. If you’re unsure how to do this, refer to your car’s manual for instructions. It’s worth noting that sometimes, glitches in the system can be cleared up by just restarting the car.

Step 5: Clean the Light Fixtures

Before you give up, don’t forget to clean the button light fixtures! Dirt, dust, and grime can easily block the light from shining through. This is a simple fix that you can do yourself. Grab a microfiber cloth or some compressed air and clean the area around the buttons and light fixtures. This might just be the easy solution you’ve been looking for!

Preventive Tips to Avoid Future Steering Wheel Button Lighting Problems

While you’ve now got your steering wheel button lighting back to normal, you’re probably wondering how to avoid this problem in the future. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to ensure that your button lighting continues to work as it should for the long run.

Regular Cleaning

As mentioned earlier, dirt and debris can easily clog up the light fixtures on your steering wheel buttons. To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re regularly cleaning the area around the buttons. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the surface and remove any dust or particles that might accumulate.

Periodic Inspections

It’s a good idea to perform a quick inspection of your car’s electrical system every once in a while. This doesn’t have to be a major undertaking, but checking the fuses and wiring for wear and tear can help you catch potential issues before they become a big problem. The earlier you notice something off, the easier it is to fix.

Avoiding Harsh Driving Conditions

Driving in rough conditions or extreme temperatures can put a lot of strain on your car’s electrical system. If you live in an area with harsh winters or extremely hot summers, take extra care to protect your car from the elements. This might mean using a garage to park your car or investing in protective covers to shield the steering wheel from damage.

Use the Right Settings

Make sure you’re familiar with all the settings on your Honda Civic Sport’s infotainment system. There may be a setting that controls the steering wheel button lighting, and turning it on or off might be all you need to do to solve any issues.

I hope this guide helps you understand why your 2020 Honda Civic Sport steering wheel button lighting isn’t working and gives you the tools to fix it. Whether it’s a blown fuse, a loose wire, or something as simple as cleaning the light fixtures, the solution might be easier than you think. Drive safely and keep those buttons shining bright!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Common for the Steering Wheel Button Lighting to Fail on the 2020 Honda Civic Sport?

Yes, electrical issues and worn-out components can sometimes cause the button lighting to stop working. It’s a common issue that can often be fixed with simple maintenance.

Can I Replace the Fuse for the Steering Wheel Button Lighting Myself?

Yes, replacing a fuse is a relatively simple task that most car owners can do themselves, as long as they use the right fuse and follow the instructions carefully.

Do I Need to Remove the Entire Steering Wheel to Check the Wiring?

Not necessarily. In some cases, you can access the wiring by removing the cover around the steering wheel. However, if the wiring is difficult to reach, it might require partial removal of the steering wheel.

Is There a Way to Reset the Lighting through the Car’s Software?

Yes, sometimes resetting the car’s infotainment system or updating the software can solve issues with the steering wheel button lighting.

Can a Blown Fuse Affect Other Features of My Honda Civic Sport?

Yes, a blown fuse can impact other electrical features in your car, so it’s important to check all related systems if you notice other malfunctions.

Do I Need Special Tools to Replace the Steering Wheel Button Assembly?

Replacing the steering wheel button assembly can require special tools, particularly if you need to disassemble the steering wheel. If you’re not comfortable doing this, it’s best to consult a mechanic.

Is Cleaning the Button Lighting Fixtures Really Enough to Fix the Issue?

In some cases, yes! Dust and grime can block the lights from shining, so cleaning the area around the buttons is worth trying before diving into more complex repairs.

Can Software Glitches Cause the Steering Wheel Button Lighting to Malfunction?

Yes, software glitches or incorrect settings can sometimes interfere with the lighting system, so checking your car’s settings is always a good first step in troubleshooting.